USACE Seattle District, Grays Harbor Dredging (FY21-FY23)

Overview

HME was contracted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Seattle District to perform multi-year maintenance dredging in Grays Harbor, WA. The project spanned FY21-FY23, involving the removal of over 1,000,000 cubic yards of sediment to maintain critical waterway depths for commercial and government vessels.

Grays Harbor serves as a key deep-water port, supporting regional trade and military operations. HME’s clamshell dredging operations ensured continued safe navigation and efficient harbor functionality while complying with state and federal environmental regulations.

1. The Challenge

• Maintain navigability for deep-draft vessels and commercial shipping.
• Execute large-scale sediment removal while minimizing operational disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with strict environmental and regulatory standards.

2. The Solution

• Utilized clamshell dredging to remove over 1,000,000 CY of sediment efficiently.
• Managed sediment placement in approved in-water disposal sites per USACE guidance.
• Completed work on schedule and in compliance with all permitting requirements.

3. The Impact

• Restored channel depths, ensuring safe navigation for large vessels.
• Supported regional trade and port operations with minimal disruption.
• Maintained compliance with all state and federal dredging regulations.
• Extended the operational efficiency of Grays Harbor as a vital deep-water port.

Conclusion

HME’s multi-year dredging operations at Grays Harbor ensured safe and efficient navigation for commercial and government vessels. The project reinforced HME’s capability to manage large-scale maintenance dredging while adhering to strict regulatory requirements.